Breckenridge, Colorado, is a spectacular mountain town full of charm and adventure, sitting at 9,600 feet above sea level. The town is well known for its top-notch ski resort, and while it is truly amazing to visit in the winter, we think the summers are superior when the snow starts to melt and fill our rivers with rushing rapids once again. Visit Breckenridge in the summer to experience mountain biking, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, and you guessed it, Breckenridge rafting!
Experience Thrilling Rafting in Browns Canyon National Monument! Join Performance Tours for a wet n’ wild adventure through Colorado’s most popular whitewater rafting trip, featuring exciting class 3+ rapids and picturesque scenery.
This convenient rafting trip near Breckenridge delivers moderate whitewater fun and stunning mountain views, covering several miles of whitewater in less than 2 hours. The Blue River’s season is short and snowpack-dependent, so availability varies—plan ahead and call to book!
Big Views with Small Splashes! Upper Bear Creek is a great family option for a Colorado rafting trip near Buena Vista.
This is a great adrenaline pumping river trip for anyone in good physical condition looking for an exciting, scenic, and challenging whitewater adventure!
Whitewater rafting stands out as a top summer activity in Breckenridge, and it's easy to see why! Immersing yourself in the breathtaking Colorado landscape, tackling thrilling rapids, and creating lasting memories with loved ones make whitewater rafting near Breckenridge an unparalleled adventure. Choose from mellow family floats, exciting moderate rapids, and even exhilarating class 4+ whitewater on the Arkansas River or the Blue River.
The Blue River begins near Mount Quandary, running through Breckenridge and feeding into Lake Dillon. From Lake Dillon, also known as Dillon Reservoir, water is periodically released, based on the dam’s capacity. The section below Lake Dillon, where water is released from the reservoir, is the only commercially rafted section of the Blue River, offering moderate-level class 3+ rapids.
Whitewater rafting on the Blue River is the closest rafting to Breckenridge. However, the ability to offer commercial rafting trips on the Blue River is dependent on the water levels and snowpack from the previous winter. Flows on the Blue River vary from year-to-year, and when flows are low, we recommend guests experience an alternative incredible rafting trip — Browns Canyon National Monument on the Arkansas River.
Whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River in Buena Vista offers an exhilarating adventure amidst stunning natural beauty. With its diverse rapids ranging from mild to wild, the Arkansas River provides options for rafters of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned experts. As you navigate through the picturesque canyons and valleys, you'll encounter exciting rapids, breathtaking scenery, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Most Breckenridge-based guests choose to access the whitewater rafting options on the Arkansas River in Buena Vista, CO. In Buena Vista, there are three main rafting trips which offer a variety of tours for all ages and abilities: Browns Canyon National Monument, Numbers, and Bear Creek Family Float. Downriver near Canon City, CO, Performance Tours Rafting offers whitewater tours in the Royal Gorge and Bighorn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas River.
Looking for the best family rafting adventures in Breckenridge? Explore our latest blog posts for helpful tips, trip ideas, and everything you need to know about planning the perfect family rafting adventure in Breckenridge.
Looking for the most thrilling whitewater rafting adventures near Breckenridge? Explore our latest blog posts for expert tips, top river runs, and everything you need to fuel your next adrenaline-pumping rafting trip.
Looking for the closest whitewater rafting near Breckenridge? Check out our blog posts for insider tips, nearby river options, and everything you need to plan a convenient and unforgettable day on the water.
Breckenridge Office
Sales Office Only
Breckenridge Office
107 Ski Hill Rd.
Breckenridge, CO 80424
Buena Vista Office
Arkansas River
Browns Canyon, Numbers, Bear Creek
Buena Vista Office
115 Gregg Dr.
Buena Vista, CO 81211
Royal Gorge Office
Arkansas River
Royal Gorge, Bighorn Sheep Canyon
Royal Gorge Office
0193 County Road 3A
Canon City, CO 81212
Meet your raft guide
Hometown: Fort Collins, CO
Professional Raft Guide Since 2017
"My favorite part about Performance Tours is the loving community and guides I get to be around every day. Living and working in a place where we bring each other up and have each other's backs is the best!"
Breckenridge, CO offers a wealth of activities throughout the year. From whitewater rafting, hiking, and biking in summer to world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter, there's adventure at every turn. Explore historic Main Street's shops and eateries, enjoy thrilling sports like zip-lining and rafting, and immerse yourself in local culture with museums and festivals. See a full list of our favorite things to do in Breckenridge here!
For those seeking white water rafting adventures near Breckenridge, CO, both the Arkansas River and the Blue River offer thrilling options within close proximity. The Arkansas River, particularly Browns Canyon, is a popular choice and is relatively close to Breckenridge, providing exciting rapids and picturesque scenery. Additionally, the Blue River, located even closer to Breckenridge, offers rafting opportunities suitable for various skill levels. By choosing either the Arkansas River or the Blue River for your white water rafting excursion, you can enjoy convenient access to thrilling rapids and unforgettable outdoor experiences just a short distance from Breckenridge.
To prepare for a Breckenridge whitewater rafting trip there are a few key steps you can take and essential items to bring along. Firstly, familiarize yourself with the specific details of your rafting trip, including the difficulty level, duration, and meeting point provided by your chosen Breckenridge whitewater rafting outfitter. It's advisable to dress appropriately for the water and weather conditions, wearing comfortable, quick-drying clothing such as swimsuits or athletic wear. Additionally, bring along items like sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap to secure them, a hat for sun protection, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the journey. Lastly, don't forget to bring a sense of adventure and a willingness to listen to your experienced rafting guide's instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience on the Breckenridge whitewater rapids.
When booking an activity to go whitewater rafting in Breckenridge, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure a fantastic experience. First, choose the appropriate difficulty level for your group, taking into account everyone's experience and comfort level on the water. Check the season and water levels, aiming for optimal conditions typically from May to September. Booking whitewater rafting Breckenridge trips in advance is crucial, as rafting trips can fill up quickly during peak season. Dress appropriately for the water and weather conditions, bringing sunscreen and listening to your guide's instructions for a safe and enjoyable trip down the river.
The best time of year to go rafting in Breckenridge, CO spans from May through August. As mountain snow melts during this timeframe, water levels rise, setting the stage for exhilarating rafting adventures. Typically, the peak Breckenridge rafting season aligns with late spring and early summer, boasting optimal water flows and thrilling rapids. Nevertheless, the precise timing can fluctuate based on weather conditions and snowpack levels. For the latest updates on river conditions and ideal rafting times, contact a trusted local outfitter such as Performance Tours Rafting.
The Upper Blue River runs through the town of Breckenridge, and though it may be tempting, you cannot float the river in Breckenridge. The best way to play in the river in Breckenridge is by going whitewater rafting on the Blue River or in Browns Canyon National Monument.
Though there is no whitewater rafting in Breckenridge town limits, there is excellent whitewater rafting near Breckenridge. Just 10 minutes north of Breckenridge in Frisco, CO, is our Blue River rafting office. The Blue River is the closest whitewater rafting near Breckenridge, and runs just north of Silverthorne. Guests looking for whitewater rafting in Breckenridge in June can opt for the Blue River or Browns Canyon National Monument.
There are ample paid parking options nearby the Performance Tours Rafting office in Breckenridge, CO.
Yes. You can make a reservation for rafting trips on the Arkansas River and Blue River at the Performance Tours office in Breckenridge, CO.
No. Whitewater rafting tours do not meet or depart from the Breckenridge office. Departure information will be included in your reservation confirmation.
The Performance Tours Rafting Breckenridge office is dedicated to making reservations, providing information about our rafting trips and selling Performance Tours merchandise. No whitewater rafting trips meet or depart from the Breckenridge office.
Downtown Breckenridge has more than 200 bars, restaurants and shops in the historic downtown area. Whether you’re looking for brunch, lunch, dinner or happy hour, there are plenty of dining options to satisfy your appetite.
Our Favorite Breckenridge Restaurants and Bars
Guests can choose from many hotels and lodging properties in Breckenridge. Narrow down your search on GoBreck.com or check out a few of our recommendations below!
Breckenridge is more than just a beautiful mountain town—it’s the perfect base for an unforgettable Colorado adventure. While we think no trip is complete without a whitewater rafting experience, there’s plenty more to explore once you’ve dried off and changed out of your gear.
Local Tip: Local Tip: The B Like Breckenridge app is a great resource for finding nearby trails, activities, events, and more.
Breckenridge is a hiker’s paradise, with trails for every skill level and view-seeker. The best hiking conditions run from June through September, when wildflowers bloom and alpine lakes sparkle. With over 100 trails in the area, you can’t go wrong whichever direction you head.
Local favorites:
Local Tip: Want to hike with a story? Check out more historic trail recommendations from Breckenridge History—they’re a great way to explore the area’s past while enjoying the beauty of the present.
One of Breck’s most unique features is the free gondola that links downtown to Peaks 7 and 8. It’s more than just a scenic ride—it drops you at the base of summer adventures like:
It’s a must-do for families or anyone looking for a high-altitude thrill without the hike.
Local Tip: The gondola glides right over Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve, a protected alpine wetland that’s home to moose, foxes, beavers, and over 40 bird species. Keep your eyes peeled—early morning or dusk offers your best chance to spot a moose from above.
Whether you’re arriving or exploring, Breckenridge is surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain roads. These are a few of our favorite drives:
Local Tip: Looping back to Breck after rafting near Buena Vista? Take the scenic route through Leadville, the highest incorporated town in the U.S. Stroll the historic main street, grab lunch, and if you're lucky, pop into Melanzana—the legendary local gear shop known for its handmade microgrid hoodies (but heads up, it’s appointment-only!).
